Progression From MGUS To Myeloma Is Similar Among Japanese And Westerners – A recent study found that Japanese people with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) progressed to multiple myeloma at rates similar to those previously reported for Westerners.  Specifically, the results showed that 3 percent progressed within 5 years, 9 percent within 10 years, 11.4 percent within 15 years, and 32.1 percent within 20 years.  For more information, see the study in the journal Rinsho Ketsueki (abstract).

Pomalidomide May Be Effective In Patients With Amyloidosis – Results from a Phase 2 study show that pomalidomide plus dexamethasone (Decadron), a combination being studied for the treatment of multiple myeloma, may also be effective in previously treated patients with immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis.  Amyloidosis is a blood disorder that results in the abnormal accumulation of proteins in tissues and organs throughout the body.  An estimated 10 percent to 15 percent of myeloma patients also develop symptoms associated with amyloidosis (see related Beacon news).  Among the 33 amyloidosis patients included in the study, 48 percent had improved blood cell counts and 15 percent had organ improvement after treatment with pomalidomide and dexamethasone.  The median progression-free survival was 14 months, and the median overall survival was 28 months.  For more information, see the study in the journal Blood (abstract).

Participants Needed For Myeloma Risk Association Study – The International Myeloma Foundation is conducting a study to determine why certain races and family members are at an increased risk of developing multiple myeloma.  The study is a brief survey that multiple myeloma patients can complete via the Internet.  To participate, see the study website.

Clinical Insights Education Program – The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) is sponsoring an education program for myeloma patients and their families about multiple myeloma clinical insights. The event will be held on April 27 in New York City. Myeloma experts from leading cancer centers will speak about the latest advances in frontline therapy, stem cell transplants, relapsed and refractory myeloma, supportive care, and clinical trials. A question and answer session is included in the program. Registration will begin at 9 a.m., and the program will conclude at 2:30 p.m. For more information or to register, please see the MMRF website.

For a more detailed listing of myeloma-related events, please check the Myeloma Beacon Events Calendar.